What areas should you avoid in Genoa?

Certain parts of the West Docks (e.g., near the railway yards): These areas are primarily industrial, lack tourist amenities, and can feel unsafe, especially after dark.. Very secluded alleys within the Centro Storico late at night: While the old town is generally vibrant, some very narrow and unlit side streets can feel intimidating and are potential spots for petty crime.

What are the safest areas to stay in Genoa?

The safest neighbourhoods for tourists in Genoa include Centro Storico (Old Town), Boccadasse, Carignano. These areas are popular with visitors and well-regarded for safety.

What scams should you watch for in Genoa?

Common scams in Genoa: Distraction theft (e.g., someone spills something on you, then tries to help clean it while an accomplice steals your belongings).. Overpriced tourist menus or 'special' dishes in some restaurants.. Fake petitions or charity collectors, especially in busy areas..

Areas to Avoid in Genoa

Q: Is Genoa safe for tourists?

Genoa is rated as "safe" for tourists. Stick to main, well-populated streets, especially in the Centro Storico. Areas around the train stations (Brignole, Principe) can feel less welcoming late at night. Avoid dimly lit alleys.

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|🛡️ Safe

Honest 2026 safety guide for travellers visiting Genoa. Which areas need extra caution, common scams to watch for, and safe neighbourhoods to stay instead.

Last updated: March 2026

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Skip the risky areas. Compare hotels in safe neighbourhoods on Expedia.

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Genoa is generally Safe

2 areas to be aware of · Best areas to stay: Centro Storico (Old Town), Boccadasse, Carignano

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Quick tip: Most tourist areas in Genoa are safe. This guide covers areas locals recommend avoiding.

Areas That Need Extra Caution

These areas are not necessarily dangerous, but travellers should be more aware

Certain parts of the West Docks (e.g., near the railway yards)

These areas are primarily industrial, lack tourist amenities, and can feel unsafe, especially after dark.

🛡️ Stay here instead: Centro Storico (Old Town)

A labyrinth of narrow alleys, historic palaces, and vibrant street life.

Very secluded alleys within the Centro Storico late at night

While the old town is generally vibrant, some very narrow and unlit side streets can feel intimidating and are potential spots for petty crime.

🛡️ Stay here instead: Boccadasse

A picturesque former fishing village with colorful houses and a charming beach.

Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Genoa

Now you know which areas to avoid, here are the best guided experiences to explore the city with confidence.

Guided walking tour through a European city

Genoa Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems

Discover Genoa on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.

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Genoa Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites

Eat your way through Genoa with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.

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Best of Genoa: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions

Skip the queues and get straight into Genoa's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.

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Day Trip from Genoa: Scenic Excursion

Escape Genoa for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

View Tour Details

Local cultural experience and traditions

Genoa Cultural Experience: History & Traditions

Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Genoa's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.

View Tour Details

View all tours in Genoa

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Stay Safe, Explore Confidently

Book a hotel in a safe neighbourhood or join a guided tour in Genoa

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Stay in a safe neighbourhood

Compare hotels in Genoa on Expedia

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Book a guided tour

Explore Genoa safely with a local guide

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Book a Hotel in a Safe Neighbourhood

These areas are recommended by locals and popular with travellers

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Centro Storico (Old Town)

A labyrinth of narrow alleys, historic palaces, and vibrant street life.

Generally safe during the day, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas; at night, stick to well-lit main streets as some alleys can feel isolated.

🛡️

Boccadasse

A picturesque former fishing village with colorful houses and a charming beach.

Very safe day and night due to its small village feel and family-friendly atmosphere.

View All Safe Neighbourhoods

General Safety Tips for Genoa

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At Night

Stick to main, well-populated streets, especially in the Centro Storico. Areas around the train stations (Brignole, Principe) can feel less welcoming late at night. Avoid dimly lit alleys.

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Solo Female Travel

Genoa is generally safe for solo female travelers. The main risks are petty theft in crowded tourist areas like the Old Town and Porto Antico. Stick to well-lit streets at night and be aware of your surroundings.

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Emergency Number

112

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Stay Connected

Save your accommodation address and emergency contacts on your phone. Download offline maps before exploring.

Common Scams to Watch For in Genoa

1Distraction theft (e.g., someone spills something on you, then tries to help clean it while an accomplice steals your belongings).
2Overpriced tourist menus or 'special' dishes in some restaurants.
3Fake petitions or charity collectors, especially in busy areas.

🛡️

Travel Insurance for Genoa

SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.

Get covered

Safe Neighborhoods to Stay Instead

These areas are popular with travellers and rated well for safety

🛡️

Centro Storico (Old Town)

A labyrinth of narrow alleys, historic palaces, and vibrant street life.

Generally safe during the day, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas; at night, stick to well-lit main streets as some alleys can feel isolated.

first-timersculturefoodies

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Boccadasse

A picturesque former fishing village with colorful houses and a charming beach.

Very safe day and night due to its small village feel and family-friendly atmosphere.

couplesfamiliesbeach lovers

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Carignano

An elegant residential area with grand architecture and green spaces.

Safe during the day and night, known for its residential tranquility and well-maintained streets.

familiesluxurycouples

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Sampierdarena

A historically industrial and diverse working-class district with ongoing regeneration.

Generally safe during the day, but exercise caution in less populated areas at night; be aware of your surroundings.

budgetdigital nomadsfirst-timers

Safety in Genoa

Safe

CautionModerateSafeVery Safe

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Solo Female Travel

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At Night

Stick to main, well-populated streets, especially in the Centro Storico. Areas around the train stations (Brignole, Principe) can feel less welcoming late at night. Avoid dimly lit alleys.

🚨

Emergency

112

Common Scams to Watch For

1Distraction theft (e.g., someone spills something on you, then tries to help clean it while an accomplice steals your belongings).
2Overpriced tourist menus or 'special' dishes in some restaurants.
3Fake petitions or charity collectors, especially in busy areas.

Back to Genoa full guide